Fictional Characters 30+ Popular TV Characters Who Were Suddenly Written Off The Show (And Why)

Writing off a character is a big deal for any show (except Game of Thrones; characters on that show drop like flies). Some shows, like Buffy the Vampire Slayer or The Office, make sure to give their characters a ritualistic send off into that sweet fictional heaven, while others take care to provide a sensible storyline about where characters are headed. But more often, it seems that some programs write nary a farewell scene or even give a word of exposition to put their viewers' minds at ease. This is the list of characters who were written off of their TV shows a little too suddenly. From award-winning Comedy Central programs to some of the best recent ABC shows, even prestigious programs will drop a character quickly if behind-the-scenes drama makes it necessary.

For five seasons, Kevin Spacey terrified Netflix audiences with his portrayal of the Machiavellian politician Frank Underwood. However, his character was written out in season six and filming resumed without him. Spacey was one of many men who faced multiple allegations of sexual harassment in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, the first of which came from fellow actor Anthony Rapp. After these allegations came to light, Netflix severed ties with the actor.

After narrowly avoiding a palapa fire, Erlich Bachman made his exit from the Silicon Valley world when billionaire Gavin Belson paid a man to house Bachman in an opium den for five years. While Bachman was often insufferable, the character's antics were integral to Silicon Valley, so his departure left fans baffled. TJ Miller, who portrayed Bachman, initially said the decision was mutual.

However, there appeared to be more to the story. Reports later surfaced alleging Miller was difficult on set, frequently showed up unprepared, was under the influence while filming, and had an explosive temper. Even creator Mike Judge acknowledged Miller's behavior caused issues. Miller told a slightly different version of the story during interviews after his departure.

Rumor has it that Mischa Barton, who portrayed notorious hot mess Marissa Cooper on The O.C., wanted out of the series to pursue a film career. So she died in the arms of her true love, Ryan Atwood, after being involved in a car wreck. It could have been worse - she could have been lifted into the sky by a UFO.

You don't mess with Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Isaac Hayes found this out after he quit South Park due to the episode "Trapped in the Closet" - a send-up of Scientology - for being intolerant toward his religious beliefs. Had he never seen South Park before? His character, Chef, was dropped off a bridge, where he fell on some rocks, was impaled by a branch, and had his limbs chewed off by a mountain lion and a grizzly bear. Later, Hayes's son claimed the church made the decision for him.